Updating toy safety rules to reduce costs and improve access
1 July 2026
The Government is updating New Zealand’s toy safety regulations to better align with Australia and recognised international standards.
New Zealand’s current toy safety regulations rely on a 2002 standard that is now out of step with international practice, creating unnecessary compliance costs and complexity for businesses supplying toys in New Zealand.
The issue was raised through the Ministry for Regulation’s Red Tape Tipline, highlighting real-world challenges faced by suppliers. The Ministry for Regulation worked closely with the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment, Standards New Zealand, and the Commerce Commission to assess the issue and identify practical solutions.
The updated approach will allow suppliers to demonstrate compliance using a wider range of recognised international standards. This reduces duplication, as many toys are already tested against these standards for other markets.
The Ministry for Regulation’s analysis found that aligning with Australia would reduce compliance costs without compromising safety. Modelling estimates the changes could deliver a net benefit of up to $6.8 million over 10 years.
These changes are expected to make it easier for trusted retailers to supply a wider range of compliant toys in New Zealand, improving access for consumers while maintaining strong safety protections.